School Board: Mike McCandless

I am Mike McCandless from Huntington and I am running for school board from District 3. I am running for this position for five key reasons, Brandon, Nicole, Madison, Kayleigh and Spencer; my five children. Every day I witness first hand the effects of decisions the school board makes that affect my family. From fees for activities, school lunch programs, and athletics to vocational training and testing programs within the schools. I am a life-long resident of Emery County, raised by a school teacher, and I believe I can provide some valuable leadership and courage to the decision making process.

I have four main areas of focus in my campaign. First is administrative accountability. When the school board and the administration make financial decisions, there needs to be follow up and accountability for those decisions. As an example, the recent decision to purchase nine subdivision lots in Castle Dale. This transaction took nearly $300,000 in tax value off the tax rolls and now we as tax payers have to make up this shortfall. Furthermore, they purchased these lots at a time when funds within the district are low due to decreasing enrollment. Is this purchase a good investment? It remains to be seen, but the timing of the purchase and the long term effects need scrutiny. Second, I want to focus on ensuring class sizes, particularly in elementary schools remain small. Third, I want to deepen the support of vocational and work based education. Finally, I am deeply concerned about the escalating fees and out of pocket expenses for activities. The current system is creating discrimination based on ability to pay. Certainly not every family in Emery County can afford more than $1,000 to be a high school cheerleader. As a result, many children who would like to, do not even try out for these activities. I appreciate your consideration for this position.